How the Mullet Evolved from 1980S Punchline to 2026'S Sharpest Men's Haircut
By Robert Thorne
A low-maintenance appearance often requires high-maintenance upkeep. The short modern cut relies on clean edges and crisp fades, which deteriorate far faster than a standard scissor cut or a long shag.
The sides and neckline will begin losing their sharp outline around the 18-to-21-day mark. Budgeting for maintenance is essential:
- Full Cut Cycle: Plan on visiting the barber shop every 4 to 5 weeks for a complete restyle, which averages $45 to $95 depending on the metropolitan area.
- Neckline & Taper Cleanups: Many modern barbers offer interim cleanup services at a reduced rate, typically $20 to $35, to re-taper the neckline and refresh the temple fade between major cuts.
- Styling Products: High-grade matte styling clay and mineral-rich texturizing sprays run between $22 and $38 per unit, with a tub lasting roughly three to four months.
Attempting to trim the neckline at home with a beard trimmer almost always leads to a raised, uneven line that ruins the transition. If you cannot commit to frequent touch-ups, letting the sides grow into an unkempt fringe quickly blurs the line between modern sophistication and retro disarray.
Robert Thorne covers electric vehicle innovations, autonomous driving systems, global mobility trends, and automotive engineering developments.
